Two CLSU Researchers Earn Top Honors at International Research Conference

Central Luzon State University (CLSU) once again proved its research excellence, as one of its faculty researchers and a research assistant received top awards during the 8th JAAP International Research and Development Conference, held on June 18–19, 2026, at Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), Dumaguete City. Dr. Garry A. Benico, faculty researcher of the College of Science and head of the Algal Diversity and Bioresources Laboratory (ADB Lab), secured First Place – Oral Paper Presenter in the Science and Health Category for his research presentation entitled “Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Philippines: Distribution, Taxonomy, and Emerging Threats.” His award-winning presentation highlighted the current status of harmful algal blooms in Philippine waters, emphasizing the diversity and distribution of bloom-forming microalgae, their impacts on fisheries and public health, and emerging challenges posed by climate change and coastal eutrophication. The study underscored the importance of strengthening monitoring systems and advancing research-based management strategies to mitigate HAB-related risks. Adding to CLSU’s success, Ms. Ma. Andrea L. Dismaya, a Research Assistant from the Freshwater Aquaculture Center (FAC) and College of Fisheries, was recognized as the Best Poster Presenter for her research poster titled “Upscaling of FaST Strain Breeding Nucleus for Wider Dissemination of Quality Broodstocks and Fingerlings for the Tilapia Industry.” The study was co-authored by Dr. Karl Marx A. Quaizon, Director of FAC and the President of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Alumni Association of the Philippines (JAAP). The award-winning poster highlighted efforts to strengthen the Philippine tilapia industry through the expansion of the FaST (FAC Selected Tilapia) strain breeding nucleus, ensuring the wider availability of high-quality broodstocks and fingerlings to fish farmers. The initiative supports increased productivity, genetic improvement, and sustainability within the country’s aquaculture sector. The conference, themed “Empowering Research, Shaping Resilient Futures: Global Collaboration for Scientific Innovation,” brought together researchers, scientists, educators, and industry practitioners from various academic and research institutions to share scientific advancements and foster international collaboration. The recognition received by Dr. Benico and Ms. Dismaya reflects CLSU’s continuing commitment to excellence in research, innovation, and knowledge generation. Their accomplishments underscore the university’s growing impact in aquatic science, fisheries, environmental research, and sustainable development. Congratulations, Dr. Benico and Ms. Dismaya!